Medianama Criticizes Network Slicing, Cites Net Neutrality Concerns
Medianama founder Nikhil Pahwa has raised concerns about potential weakening of net neutrality rules at an Indian telecom authority (TRAI) consultation, criticizing the inclusion of network slicing within Quality of Service regulations.
Nikhil Pahwa, founder and editor of digital policy news site Medianama, has voiced strong opposition to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's (TRAI) consideration of network slicing within its Quality of Service (QoS) framework. Pahwa, who was instrumental in establishing India's robust net neutrality regime in 2015-2016, fears that allowing network slicing could undermine core net neutrality principles.
Speaking at a TRAI open house discussion, Pahwa argued that the principle of network neutrality must extend to network slices themselves. He referenced past instances where telecom operators, such as Airtel, manipulated internet speeds and pricing for specific services, impacting consumer experience. He warned that allowing service-specific network slices could lead to preferential treatment for certain applications, potentially disadvantaging startups that rely on equitable internet access.
Medianama has also sought information regarding communications between TRAI and Reliance Jio concerning network slicing. The company has criticized TRAI's response to Right to Information (RTI) requests as insufficient, leading to an appeal. Pahwa called for greater transparency and accountability from TRAI, especially concerning decisions that could significantly reshape India's digital economy.
Pahwa urged TRAI to withhold decisions on network slicing until a separate consultation on net neutrality is concluded. He asserted that India's digital economic success is built upon strong net neutrality and warned that reversing this stance could jeopardize the nation's growth.